It’s been a few weeks since our first youth conference in Jozi East, and looking back, I’m honestly just so grateful for what God did that night.
We had between 250 and 300 young people come together at City Hope Church, and there was such a great energy in the room. There was lots of laughter, connection and excitement, but for me, the worship was probably the biggest highlight. Seeing a room full of young people worshipping Jesus so freely and passionately was really special. It was one of those moments where you could just step back in awe of what God is doing.
What made the weekend even more meaningful for me was getting to baptise a young man that attended two days later at God First Jozi East. It was my first time baptising someone, which was already a big moment, but the fact that it was someone that I have been walking a journey with made it even more special. I’ve had the privilege of walking a journey with him through his youth years, watching him go through Advance and now seeing him step up as a leader in our youth.
For me, that’s what it’s all about. The conference was an amazing night, but we want to see more than just young people coming to events. We want to see them growing in their faith, becoming leaders and then helping other young people discover Jesus for themselves.
Our next big moment together will be our youth camp from 10 to 13 December 2026, and we’d really appreciate your prayers as we raise the funds to make it possible for as many young people as we can. We’re also collecting soccer balls, soccer boots and soccer kits for the young people.
Looking back at the conference and at everything God is doing in Jozi East, I’m really excited about where things are heading. There’s still lots to do, but it feels like God is building something special amongst our young people.
Written by Brandon Qabela, Jozi East Hub Facilitator
Edited by Naomi Engelbrecht
